A simple platform to achieve polymorphic graphene quantum dots

(Nanowerk News) Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, have demonstrate a simple platform to achieve architectural polymorphs of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) by maneuvering the intra/intermolecular interactions of the constituent GQDs in binary solution systems.

The scientists delineate a simple synthetic platform to achieve the architectural diversities of GQDs-based structured materials in a binary solution system.

By examining the conventional driving force to crystallization, the GQDs polymorphs can be further diversified by exploiting the intimate association of GQDs with solvents, resulting in the highly faceted structures by forming efficient molecular packings and tuning the cohesive energies of crystal facets.

The structured GQDs superlattice is constructed by forming layer-by-layer internal structures and also exhibit structurally-guided photoluminescence behaviors associated with regulated charge transfer during the crystallization, which are determined by comparison with the structural evolution and amplification of photoluminescence emission intensity as crystallization proceeds.

The team points out that the exquisite regulation of GQD pair potentials can further achieve the architectural diversities of a GQD superlattice: truncation by bonding with hydrocarbon ligands and one- or two-axial growth by maneuvering the intimate associations with solvents.

"Therefore, we believe that our insights into the understanding of GQD superlattice formation will give a facile and exquisite manufacturing pathway for designing structured graphitic carbon-based materials and producing hybrids composed of 2D nanostructures to regulate photonic and electronic behaviors toward practical uses,".